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Schedule A
To By-law 733
TOWNSHIP OF
GILLIES
EMERGENCY PLAN
Originally Prepared by:
Thunder Bay E.M.O.
March 2004
Revised by Gillies Administrative Staff
December 2013
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS..................................................................................................................................... ii
GENERAL ...................................................................................................................................................... iv
FOREWORD .................................................................................................................................................. iv
1. AIM ............................................................................................................................................................ 1
2. COMPOSITION, RESPONSIBILITIES AND POWERS OF THE COMMUNITY CONTROL GROUP .................... 1
3. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PLAN .............................................................................................................. 2
4. EMERGENCY ALERTING OF C.C. GROUP.................................................................................................... 2
5. NAMES AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS OF C.C. GROUP ............................................................................... 2
6. THE COMMUNITY CONTROL GROUP SHALL: ............................................................................................ 3
7. THE REEVE SHALL: ..................................................................................................................................... 3
8. THE CLERK SHALL: ..................................................................................................................................... 4
9. THE OPP DETACHMENT COMMANDER SHALL:......................................................................................... 5
10. THE FIRE CHIEF SHALL: ............................................................................................................................ 5
11. THE AMBULANCE SERVICE SHALL: .......................................................................................................... 6
12. THE ROAD SUPERINTENDENT SHALL: ..................................................................................................... 6
13. THE EMERGENCY PLANNING OFFICER – THUNDER BAY AREA EMERGENCY MEASURES
ORGANIZATION / CEMC SHALL: .................................................................................................................... 7
14. THE MEDICAL OFFICER OF HEALTH SHALL: ............................................................................................. 7
15. DISTRICT MANAGER – MINISTRY OF COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL SERVICES SHALL: ................................ 8
16. MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES DISTRICT MANAGER SHALL: ......................................................... 8
17. THE BOARD OF EDUCATION SHALL: ........................................................................................................ 8
18. THE PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER SHALL: .......................................................................................... 9
19. ST. JOHN AMBULANCE CORPS SUPERTENDENT SHALL: ......................................................................... 9
20. THE MEDIA SHALL: .................................................................................................................................. 9
22. THE SALVATION ARMY SHALL: .............................................................................................................. 10
23. THE ENVIRONMENT CANADA WEATHER OFFICE SHALL: ...................................................................... 10
24. THE R.C.M.P. DETACHMENT COMMANCER, ON REQUEST FOR ASSISTANCE, SHALL: .......................... 10
25. THE GENERAL MANAGER – LAKEHEAD REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY, IN THE EVENT OF A
FLOOD SITUATION SHALL:........................................................................................................................... 11
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26. EVACUATION PROCEDURES .................................................................................................................. 11
27. RECEPTION CENTRES:............................................................................................................................ 13
28. PUBLIC INFORMATION GUIDE: EVACUATION ...................................................................................... 13
30. PUBLIC INFORMATION GUIDE: DANGEROUS GASES ............................................................................ 15
31. PUBLIC INFORMATION GUIDE: TORNADO ............................................................................................ 16
APPENDIX “A” - EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS PLAN
APPENDIX B" - GILLIES CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
APPENDIX "C" - "HIRA" - HAZARDOUS IDENTIFICATION AND RISK ANALYSIS
APPENDIX "D" - PUBLIC LIST OF CONTACT INFORMATION (confidential list filed separately)
APPENDIX "E" - GILLIES-THUNDER BAY RESOURCE LIST (BLANK)
APPENDIX "F" - -LIST OF PLAN HOLDERS
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GENERAL
The Township of Gillies is situated approximately 27 km southwest of the City of Thunder Bay
and is bounded on the North side by the Township of O’Connor and on the east by the
Township of Neebing. It has an approximate area of 93 sq. km and a population (Per Census
2011) of 473.
The main roads running through the Township are Highways 588, 595, and 608. Gillies has a
volunteer Fire Service, First Response Team and is policed by the Thunder Bay O.P.P.
Detachment. Gilles has enhanced 911 service.
If the evacuation of the population is necessary, the reception municipality would be the City of
Thunder Bay.
Gillies’ Critical Infrastructure is listed as Appendix “B”.
The most probable emergencies to affect the Municipality are listed in the HIRA (Hazard
Identification and Risk Analysis) and is attached as Appendix “C”.
The LRCA (Lakehead Region Conservation Authority) is the lead agency in a flood. A copy of its
Emergency Flood Plan is to be kept in the Emergency Operations Centre and is to be utilized in
any flood or impending flood.
Telephone numbers and other personal information is contained in Appendix “D” which is not a
public document. Gillies Municipal staff is permitted to update the numbers on Appendix “D”
on a regular basis without requiring formal amendment to the by-law adopting this plan.
FOREWORD
Emergencies are defined as situations or the threat of impending situations abnormally
affecting the health, safety, welfare or property of the community, which by their nature or
magnitude require a controlled and coordinated response by all agencies. These are distinct
from routine operations carried out by municipal agencies, e.g. fire, police, or roads
departments, etc.
The Emergency Management Act is the authority for the by-law formulating this emergency
plan. This plan prescribes procedures for and the manner in which municipal employees and
other persons will respond to an emergency.
The Emergency Management Act states “Head of Council may declare that an emergency exists
in the municipality or in any part thereof and may take such action and make such orders as
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he/she considers necessary and are not contrary to the law to implement the emergency plan
of the municipality and to protect the property and the health, safety and welfare of the
inhabitants of the emergency area”. Accordingly, it is clear that the principal function of the
Community Control Group, if assembled, is to assist the Head of Council in making and placing
in effect any decisions and order that are made to control and mitigate the effects of an
emergency.
All members of Council, Community Control Group, and members of responding agencies
should read the plan, know where their copy is kept and be familiar with their duties in the
event of an emergency.
In addition to this Emergency Plan, each responding department/agency will also have its own
emergency plan or standard operating procedures, call-out and resource list.
Community Emergency Management Program Committee
The Community Emergency Management Program Committee is comprised of the Reeve, Clerk,
Emergency Planning Officer / CEMC, Fire Chief and the designated Councillor. This group will
approve the emergency plan’s content and review the municipal emergency management
program annually.
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EMERGENCY PLAN FOR THE COORDINATION OF SERVICES IN THE EVENT OF A REAL OR
IMPENDING EMERGENCY
1. AIM
To establish a general plan of action for the coordinated response in the event of an
emergency, or impending emergency, in order to preserve life, health and property.
2. COMPOSITION, RESPONSIBILITIES AND POWERS OF THE COMMUNITY CONTROL GROUP
All emergency operations shall be directed and controlled by the Community Control Group
who will assemble at the Emergency Operations Centre. The Community Control Group shall be
comprised of the following persons or their alternates:
Reeve
Clerk
Fire Chief
OPP Detachment Commander
Ambulance Supervisor
Emergency Planning Officer, Thunder Bay Area EMO/CEMC
District Manager, Ministry of Community & Social Services
Medical Officer of Health
Road Maintenance Co-ordinator
In the case of a forest fire, flood or drought:
District Manager, Ministry of Natural Resources
In the case of a flood:
Manager – Lakehead Region Conservation Authority
Note: All members of the CCG must be notified when a plan is activated. Not all of the CCG
members have to be present for the CCG to function. Additional personnel may be required,
etc., scribes, a dangerous goods expert, a person from OPG, etc.
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3. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PLAN
It is the responsibility of the first responding municipal agency at the scene of an emergency to
assess the situation and to recommend whether this plan should be implemented. If the size or
seriousness of the emergency appears beyond the capability or responsibilities of that agency,
the plan shall be put into effect. Any member of the Community Control Group, upon realizing
the magnitude of an emergency or impending emergency warrants the plan’s implementation,
may do so. Once the emergency exists, municipal employees may take such action(s) under this
emergency plan as required to protect lives and property of the community even though an
emergency has not been declared under the Act.
4. EMERGENCY ALERTING OF C.C. GROUP
On receipt of instructions from a member of the Community Control Centre, the OPP will call
out the Community Control Group. All members of the C.C. Group will be called or their
alternates if the C.C. Group member cannot be contacted. In the event telephone service is out,
the police will contact the C.C. Group by the most effective means. Whichever member of the
group gives the call-out instruction will decide if this is to be a call-out or standby. Ensure the
instructions are explicit. Instructions will include:
(a) This is an emergency call-out. Please attend the Emergency Operations Centre at (insert
appropriate location).
OR
(b) This is an emergency standby call only. Please remain by your telephone until further notice.
The standby call may also be made by one of the C.C. Group members who could supply more
information.


The Primary Emergency Operations Centre is the GILLIES MUNICIPAL OFFICE located at
the Whitefish Valley School.
The Alternate Emergency Operations Centre is the GILLIES COMMUNITY CENTRE.
TOWNSHIP OF GILLIES
COMMUNITY CONTROL GROUP CALL-OUT
5. NAMES AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS OF C.C. GROUP (See Appendix “D”)
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6. THE COMMUNITY CONTROL GROUP SHALL:
A. Appoint a site co-ordinator;
B. Take such action as is necessary to minimize the effects of an emergency or disaster on
the municipality or its inhabitants;
C. Direct, co-ordinate and supply administrative and logistic support to all municipal
departments and volunteer organizations in controlling the emergency or disaster;
D. Be prepared to authorize the expenditure of municipal funds which are required for the
preservation of life and health;
E. Establish an information center for issuance of accurate releases to the news media and
for issuance of authoritative instructions to the general public
F. Take initiative on any action required which isn’t covered in the emergency plan;
G. Share information on the emergency and important action taken by you and your
agency with other members of the Community Control Group via a written flip chart
type of device and retain the pages for record purposes;
H. The responsibilities of the Community Control Group and these described for individual
C.C. group members and responding agencies will vary depending on the type and
magnitude of the event;
I. Be aware that communications usually are the first thing to break down in an
emergency. Ensure the CCG communicate well within the group, to/from their
department/agency, use maps when applicable or any other means to assist in sharing
in information.
J. Members of the CCG will gather at regular intervals of business cycles to inform each
other of actions taken and problems encountered. Frequency of meetings and agenda
items will be established by the Clerk in consultation with the Reeve and CEMC.
Meetings will be kept as brief as possible to allow members to carry out their individual
responsibilities.
K. Ensure all personnel have been accounted for and advised of the termination of the
emergency in order that no workers are left behind. Each agency should have a list of its
personnel working during the emergency and use it as a “check-off list” at the
termination of the emergency;
L. Individually maintain a log of all action taken.
7. THE REEVE SHALL:
A. Consult with members of the Community Control Group and decide if a state of
emergency should be declared;
B. Declare an emergency under the Emergency Management Act if warranted;
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C. Order an evacuation of people in the danger zone from a potentially life-threatening
/health situation if warranted and in consultation with the applicable exports in the
Community Control Group;
D. Appoint a Public lnformation Officer if it is to be other than Clerk;
E. Ensure Emergency Management Ontario has been notified by fax of the declaration of
an “Emergency” via the Provincial Operations Centre;
F. Approve news and public announcements;
G. Request assistance from neighbouring municipalities for evacuation and reception
centers if applicable;
H. Update Council on the emergency as required;
I. lf an “Emergency” has been declared, terminate the “Emergency” at the end of the
situation and ensure the Provincial Operations Centre is notified by fax;
J. Assist the Clerk with the application for any ODRAP (Ontario Disaster Relief Assistance
Program) funding.
K. Keep a log of all action taken;
Note Under the Emergency Management Act, in the municipality only the “Head of Council”
may declare an emergency. Normally the “Head of Council” declares the emergency
terminated; however, under the Act, the municipal council or the Premier of Ontario may
declare the termination of an emergency.
8. THE CLERK SHALL:
A. Serve as advisor to the Head of Council on administrative matters and provide for the
safety of municipal records;
B. Ensure that all members of the CCG Group have been called out.
C. Carry out any necessary administration in connection with the emergency;
D. Act as Information Officer and arrange for the establishment of a public information
service to provide specific information to people who may be affected by the
emergency;
E. Maintain liaison with all supporting agencies, as required;
F. Arrange for welfare centers, in the municipality, to provide immediate welfare services
until social service agencies arrive;
G. Arrange for the assistance from volunteers to assist the Ministry of Community and
Social Services carry out the welfare function;
H. Notify the City Manager in Thunder Bay of an impending evacuation or of actual
evacuation orders as soon as possible if residents will be evacuated to Thunder Bay;
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I. Have and maintain an up-to-date inventory of supplies and equipment required for the
Emergency Operations Centre with one copy in the E.O.C. and ensure the supplies and
equipment are always in the E.O.C.
J. Conduct “business cycles” in the E.O.C. (see duties of the CCG)
K. Apply for any ODRAP (Ontario Disaster Relief Assistance Program) funding which may be
available following the termination of a declared emergency.
L. Maintain a log of all action taken.
M. Update the local names, telephone numbers, etc. electronically for this plan. Ensure
hard copies are distributed to local plan holders.
9. THE OPP DETACHMENT COMMANDER SHALL:
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
K.
L.
Activate the department’s emergency alert system;
Call out the Community Control Group as per page two.
If appropriate, appoint an on-site Police Co-ordinator;
If warranted, set up an on-site command post, either in existing facilities or in the
IEM.O. command post vehicle;
Seal off the emergency area in the event such action is necessary;
Control traffic to facilitate the movement of emergency and evacuation vehicles;
Conduct the evacuation of buildings and areas authorized by the Head of Council;
Provide security and prevent looting in emergency or evacuation areas and reception
centers;
Arrange for additional police assistance, if required;
Advise the Coroner in the event of fatalities and perform whatever additional
responsibilities maybe necessary under the Coroners Act and other statutes;
keep the C.C. Group appraised of the emergency situation;
Maintain a log of all actions taken.
10. THE FIRE CHIEF SHALL:
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
Activate the Fire Service’s Emergency Call-Out System;
Conduct firefighting operations;
Direct and/or assist rescue operations;
Activate the Fire Mutual Aid System, if required;
Appoint an on-site Fire Co-ordinator;
In the event of a dangerous goods spill:
i. Ensure the Ministry of the Environment and CANUTEC are contacted for any
assistance required;
ii. Make available the applicable portion(s) of the book entitled “North American
Emergency Response Guidebook”, to the C.C. Group
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G. Should a CBRN or HUSAR team ever be required, ensure the “Head of Council” has
declared an emergency and then call for the applicable team via the Provincial
Operations Centre.
H. Keep the C.C. Group updated on the emergency situation;
I. Maintain a log of all action taken.
11. THE AMBULANCE SERVICE SHALL:
A. Activate the departments emergency alert system and emergency plan;
B. Assume responsibility for triage and evacuation of casualties from the emergency site;
C. Assume responsibility for additional resources of ambulances, personnel and
communications equipment via Central Ambulance Communications Centre in Thunder
Bay:
i. Using ambulance radio frequencies OR by calling 911 for ambulance dispatch.
D. Provide and co-ordinate all transport requirements for the movement of casualties
E. Keep the Medical Officer of Health informed at regular intervals of all ambulance service
activities and also the C.C. Group, if the Medical Officer of Health is not in the E.O.C.;
F. Maintain a log of all actions taken.
12. THE ROAD SUPERINTENDENT SHALL:
A. Activate the department’s emergency alert system;
B. Provide municipal equipment and personnel as necessary
C. Arrange on a local basis for the procurement of special equipment e.g. heavy duty
cranes, pumps, etc.;
D. Liaise with Ministry of Transportation Officials and obtain necessary resources from
them when warranted;
E. Arrange for disconnection of utilities which represent a hazard and keep a list of local
suppliers and location of equipment in the event of an emergency;
F. Advise the Community Control Group when sustained damage to structures exceed safe
limits;
G. Provide assistance in cleanup operations and repair damages where there is a municipal
responsibility;
H. Provide flashers and barricades;
I. Provide assistance in search and rescue of trapped and injured people;
J. Restore and obtain assistance in restoring essential services
K. Act as a liaison with local and provincial utilities
L. Maintain a log of all action taken
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13. THE EMERGENCY PLANNING OFFICER – THUNDER BAY AREA EMERGENCY MEASURES
ORGANIZATION / CEMC SHALL:
A. Advise Emergency Management Ontario of any declared “Emergency” in the Provincial
Operations Centre via fax and liaise with Emergency Management Ontario during the
emergency (Notify Community Officer as soon as possible);
B. Advise the Chairperson, Thunder Bay Area E.M.O. Executive Committee, of the
emergency;
C. Contact the Lakehead Amateur Radio Club and arrange for the Club to either be on
standby or to have members attend and assist in communication functions if
communications may be a problem;
D. Act as a resource person for equipment, advisors, volunteer, provincial and federal
agencies;
E. Act as advisor to the Reeve;
F. Notify the Provincial Operations Centre via fax at the termination of a declared
emergency;
G. Conduct a debriefing session, following the termination of the emergency, with all
members of the C.C. group and other persons as directed by the C.C. group;
H. Coordinate or assist with an emergency exercise in the municipality each year;
I. Keep a log of all action taken;
J. Update this plan electronically for change of duties and out-of-town agencies, names,
telephone numbers, etc.
14. THE MEDICAL OFFICER OF HEALTH SHALL:
A. Activate the Health Unit’s emergency alert systems;
B. Coordinate all community health and medical services that may be required and liaise
with other essential services;
C. Provide and disseminate public information on any health hazards
D. Provide advice on public health matters to the C.C. Group;
E. Provide for mass immunization, if required;
F. Oversee water quality and arrange for an alternate supply of potable water, if required;
G. Provide advice to the Head of Council on the evacuation of buildings and area for health
reasons;
H. Notify other agencies and senior levels of government about health related matters;
I. Arrange for counseling for victims, families of the deceased and emergency responders
for Critical Incident Stress;
J. Maintain a log of all action taken.
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15. DISTRICT MANAGER – MINISTRY OF COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL SERVICES SHALL:
A. Activate the department’s emergency alert system;
B. Alert/call-out the following, as necessary:
i. Salvation Army
ii. Canadian Red Cross
iii. St. John Ambulance
C. According to the nature of the emergency, ensure the survival and well-being of people
during and following an emergency by coordinating with the local welfare agency and
volunteer groups, for:
i. Emergency clothing to provide adequate protection from the elements;
ii. Emergency lodging to provide adequate temporary accommodation for the
homeless;
iii. Emergency feeding to sustain those without food or adequate food preparation
facilities. and in conjunction with the Salvation Army;
iv. Individual and family services to assist and counsel individuals and families in
need and to provide special care to unattached children and dependent du1ts;
v. Assist the Red Cross in the registration and inquiry services to reunite families
and to collect information kind answer queries Concerning the safety and
whereabouts of missing persons;
vi. Maintain a log of all action taken.
16. MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES DISTRICT MANAGER SHALL:
A. Issue the preliminary alert in a forest fire, flood or drought situation to municipal
officials;
B. Provide for forest fire fighting or flood control as per Ministry policy;
C. Recommend evacuation , if warranted;
D. Determine the safe evacuation routes in conjunction with municipal officials and the
Police;
E. On completion of the fire or flood emergency, will authorize the return of the residents
if they have been ordered evacuated;
F. Maintain a log of all action taken.
17. THE BOARD OF EDUCATION SHALL:
A. Activate the Board’s Emergency Plan;
B. Provided control over school population and protection of school property;
C. Hold student population in schools until instructed otherwise by the Community Control
Group unless students are in imminent danger;
D. Make available designated schools for the reception evacuees;
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E. Ensure the board and all its schools have a coordinated and up-to-date emergency plan
which includes provisions for obtaining transportation for evacuating all school students
at any given time;
F. Maintain a log of all action taken.
18. THE PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER SHALL:
A. arrange for the dissemination of special information e.g. emergency responders to
report to a location or go on standby for call-out as the case may be; citizens to refrain
from using telephones so emergency communications will remain open; provide
information on health hazards as prepared by the Medical Officer of Health;
B. Schedule press conferences on a regular basis;
C. Arrange for media facilities and support near the E.O.C.;
D. Appoint a Citizen Inquiry Officer and telephone for a Citizen Inquiry Hot Line;
E. Gather information from emergency services and prepare releases for the approval of
the Head of Council prior to all press conferences;
F. Maintain a log of all action taken.
19. ST. JOHN AMBULANCE CORPS SUPERTENDENT SHALL:
A. Activate the agencies emergency alert system;
B. Provide first aid
C. Establish first aid posts as required and in all designated reception centres;
D. Assist local ambulance authorities or Central Ambulance Communication Centre by
providing ambulance service as lead time and resources permit;
E. Assist Red Cross and Social Service agencies in operating the reception centres;
F. Maintain a log of all action taken.
20. THE MEDIA SHALL:
A. Activate the Society’s emergency alert system;
B. Take the lead role with registration and inquiry at reception and evacuation centres;
C. Operate an inquiry bureau;
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D. Support emergency or disaster operations;
E. Assist St. John Ambulance at first aid posts established at reception centres, if required;
F. Assist with other Social Services activities as requested;
G. Maintain a log of all action taken.
22. THE SALVATION ARMY SHALL:
A. Notify its Community Relations and Development Director and activate its emergency
alert system;
B. Operate in cooperation with the Ministry of Community and Social Relations;
C. Direct and coordinate the emergency feeding requirements for workers at the site and
for victims located in reception centres;
D. Assist Social Services and the local Welfare Service in providing bedding and clothing;
E. Provide and coordinate clergy assistance;
F. Keep the C.C. Group apprised of the emergency situation.
G. Maintain a log of all actions taken.
23. THE ENVIRONMENT CANADA WEATHER OFFICE SHALL:
A. Supply all actual and forecasted meteorological information as needed;
B. Provide a mobile weather station at the site should the duration and magnitude of the
emergency warrant it;
C. Issue emergency instructions to the public via alert weather radio, if warranted and
requested by the Head of Council;
D. Maintain a log of all action taken.
24. THE R.C.M.P. DETACHMENT COMMANCER, ON REQUEST FOR ASSISTANCE, SHALL:
A. Supply personnel, vehicles with personnel and communications equipment that can be
reasonably supplied for rescue, security and communications duties as requested by the
C.C. Group.
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B. Maintain a log of all action taken.
25. THE GENERAL MANAGER – LAKEHEAD REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY, IN THE EVENT
OF A FLOOD SITUATION SHALL:
A. Activate the Authority’s Flood Warning Plan;
B. Issue a preliminary flood “Advisory” in a potential flood situation to municipal officials
and to the media;
C. Issue a flood “Warning” in a flood situation to municipal officials and to the media;
D. Advise municipal officials when alerted of a dam breach or a potential failure;
E. Provide technical flood data;
F. In the event of the declaration of a local emergency and after depletion of municipal
resources, and at the request of the Mayor, recommend to the Ministry of Natural
Resources that a Provincial Flood Emergency be declared;
G. Cancel flood Advisory/Warning as the situation warrants;
H. Maintain a log of all action taken.
26. EVACUATION PROCEDURES
A. In the event that only a small portion of Gillies is ordered evacuated, reception centres
in the safe areas of the Township will be utilized.
In an evacuation whereby the residents of the Township are required to leave Gillies,
the reception municipalities are listed below. Their selection will be dictated by the
nature and anticipated length of the emergency and the safety of the evacuation routes.
CITY OF THUNDER BAY – Primary
The evacuation routes are:
Highway 608 East to Highway 61 and North to Thunder Bay
Highway 595 North to Highway 590 and East to Thunder Bay
Highway 595 North to Highway 588, Northwest to Highway 17 and East to Thunder Bay
Alternatively – As deemed safe by the CCG.
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B. On evacuation orders by the Reeve or the District Manager, Ministry of Natural
Resources, in the case of a forest fire or flood, the Thunder Bay OPP Detachment,
assisted by the Gillies Fire Service will alert the residents by attending door to door.
C. The Clerk or Public Information Officer, if designated by the Reeve, will use the
electronic media to assist in alerting residents, explaining the mode of travel and
evacuation route. Items to consider including in the notice are:
Pre-warning includes:




a brief description of the nature and severity of the emergency
instructions to remain calm and follow instructions
the likelihood that an evacuation will be required
details on where to go and what to bring (i.e. emergency preparedness kit):
 toiletries, clothing, medication, identification, bedding, food, recreational
items, etc.
 ensuring the safety of evacuated properties (e.g. gas and water,
weatherproofing)
 what to do about pets and livestock



shelter-in-place instructions if warranted
travel instructions including available options
where to get more information
Evacuation instructions will typically include the following:










authority for calling for an evacuation
the time and date the evacuation is in effect
the nature of the emergency
delineation of the affected area
statement regarding the danger in remaining in the emergency area
instructions on leaving the emergency area including the evacuation route
the expected length of the evacuation (if known)
how to register and/or which evacuee centre to go to
transportation options and assembly points
where to get more information
Ongoing communications should be maintained through the length of the
evacuation until the return is completed. The purpose of ongoing
communications is to provide:

news about the status of the emergency situation and progress in combatting
it
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

information for evacuees and the general public regarding how to get in
touch with evacuees; and
updates on the likely length of the evacuation
D. The Reeve, time permitting, will give a brief interview to the electronic media to verify
for residents the authenticity of the evacuation order and to provide reassurance to
residents.
27. RECEPTION CENTRES:
A. GILLIES
Municipal Office
Whitefish Valley School
Hymers Fair Grounds
B. IF THUNDER BAY WERE NEEDED AS RECEPTION CENTRE:
Business
Mayor
Keith Hobbs
625-3600
City Manager Tim Commisso
625-2224
Emergency # Police Communications
684-1524 or
475-3185
475-3181
(Cell/Residence #’s in App.D)
684-1523
28. PUBLIC INFORMATION GUIDE: EVACUATION
If the evacuation is anticipated, the public will be warned by the Police.
On hearing a warning, residents are requested to turn on radios or TVs to local stations and
listen for announcements and/or instructions.
When evacuation becomes necessary and is ordered:
Residents who do not have their own transportation will be asked to assemble at Whitefish
Valley School (or, alternatively, at Gillies Community Centre).
Residents who are physically unable to move to these locations are requested to phone the
broadcasted numbers and place a white cloth into the door of residence facing the street or
road.
Pick-up will be arranged as soon as possible.
Residents who have their own transportation are asked to await further instructions.
Residents relying on emergency public transportation and/or public reception centres for
accommodation are reminded that pets are not permitted in either of these facilities.
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For the safety and comfort of your family and protection of your property, the following is
suggested in case of an evacuation.
a) Secure home.
b) Carry identification (driver’s license, birth certificate, medical alert, etc.)
c) Carry sufficient money to meet contingencies
d) Take 1 blanket or sleeping bag per person
e) Take 1 air mattress per person, if available
f) Clothes, depending on season, change of clothes
g) Raincoat, windbreaker, or parka, depending on season
h) Enough ready-to-eat food to last at least 12 hours
i) Thermos bottle of hot beverage
j) Flashlight with spare batteries
k) Prescription drugs as required (carry prescription, if possible)
l) Soap, towel, personal toilet or hygiene articles
m) Kleenex or similar tissue paper
n) Book, magazine, game, etc.
Adults with small children should include items of special needs as required.
o) Infant formula in thermos bottle
p) Disposable diapers
q) Toys
29. NOTES
1. If evacuation is by private vehicle and you have room in your vehicle, please stop at
Whitefish Valley School (or, alternatively, Gillies Community Centre) for extra
passenger(s).
2. If transportation is by emergency public transport (other than train)
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a. Only 1 piece of luggage per person can be taken (identify your luggage – it may
be transported separately.)
b. Carry valuables and documents in a handbag or on your person
3. Residents will be asked to register at Registration Centre(s) in the reception community,
so that inquiries by relatives and friends can be answered as quickly as possible.
4. An Emergency Public Information Service will be established in the reception
community.
5. Arrangements will be made with the local stores and gasoline outlets to remain open
during an evacuation as long as conditions permit.
30. PUBLIC INFORMATION GUIDE: DANGEROUS GASES
IF EMERGENCY IS CALLED:
A. Turn on radio for instructions.
B. Evacuation areas will be decided by wind direction.
C. Each school, Institution, Factory, Office, and Household is responsible for its own
evacuation plan.
DO NOT:
D. PANIC.
E. Attempt to locate pets before leaving.
F. Attempt to travel to school or place of employment to locate family. The Board of
Education will ensure students are out of the danger area.
IF UNABLE TO ESCAPE OR ARE TRAPPED:
G. Go inside.
H. Tightly close all doors, windows, and exterior openings.
I. Turn off forced air heating or ventilation systems.
J. Stay in upper portion of building. If necessary, seal yourself in one room and seal all
windows and doors with wet clothes.
K. Do not go into the basement.
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L. Move quickly but do not run if moving through gas.
M. Soak cloth in water and breathe through it, if breathing becomes difficult.
N. DO NOT PANIC AND RUN OUTSIDE.
IN YOUR CAR:
O. Close all windows.
P. Shut off ventilation.
Q. Continue driving away from the area and do not drive through the gas cloud or your car
engine will stall.
WHILE WALKING:
R. Go to nearest building or car and follow the above instructions.
S. If in open area and in the path of the cloud, move quickly to high ground at right angles
to the wind direction.
31. PUBLIC INFORMATION GUIDE: TORNADO
A. WEATHER WATHES AND WARNINGS
Environment Canada issues weather watches and warnings when anticipated weather
poses a threat to public safety. This information is relayed to the public by radio and
television.
A severe weather watch is issued up to six hours in advance to alert the general public that,
for a specified portion of Ontario, there is a high potential for dangerous thunderstorm
weather, which may be accompanied by a tornado.
A severe weather warning is issued to alert the public that severe thunderstorms or
tornadoes are imminent in the warning area – i.e. a severe thunderstorm is in progress or
expected to occur within two hours.
B. TORNADO SAFETY HINTS
A personal tornado awareness program should include:



Being aware of the weather, knowing the radio or television stations which
broadcast up-to-the-minute weather information.
Knowing the name by which Environment Canada refers to your forecast region
when they issue weather watches and warnings.
Reviewing your plans of action.
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C. WHEN A TORNADO THREATENS
Stay away from your windows, doors, and outside walls. Protect your head.
1. For maximum safety, go down to the basement or seek shelter under a stairway or
sturdy table, or in a closet.
2. Try to reach the centre of the house or the side away from the storm.
3. Avoid buildings with large areas of unsupported roof, including arenas, barns, or
supermarkets.
4. If caught in such a building, seek out the lowest floor, an inside hallway or small
interior windowless room, or get under something sturdy.
5. If caught in the open, try to determine the tornado’s direction of travel and move at
right angles to it. If you can not avoid the storm, find a ditch, ravine or other
depression and lie flat. Do not remain in your car. Many people have been killed
trying to ride out a tornado in their car.
6. If no shelter can be found, hang on to the base of a small tree or shrub.
7. Remember that damaged and weakened structures, fallen debris, downed hydro
wires, and gas leaks are potential dangers after a storm has passed.
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APPENDIX “A”
EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS PLAN
A. Timely and accurate information is of utmost importance during an emergency. Sharing of
information is critical for a co-ordinated response. Each department and position/person
listed in the Emergency Plan must know their role in the Emergency Plan and their role in
their everyday duties. This includes how they communicate on a regular basis and how they
communicate when the normal lines of communication are out of service.
B. Upon implementation of the Emergency Plan, ensure the following is carried out to
facilitate communication and an effective response:
CCG:
i.
Share information verbally and by flipchart with other CCG members.
ii.
Initiate and ensure two-way communication with your department and
your department and
iii.
Create timely, accurate and appropriate information for the public for
dissemination by the Public Information Co-ordinator. (Approved and
signed by the “Head of Council”).
iv.
Prepare public education bulletins for the public concerning health,
safety or security as needed, for distribution to the public by the Public
Information Co-ordinator via the media, handout, etc.
v.
If reception centres are set up, provide above information via maps, hard
copies and by CCG members in person.
vi.
Time permitting, the “Head of Council” should give live media coverage
initially or at a public meeting to give authority for the emergency. (The
public will be better able to believe the situation as there is often denial.)
vii.
Liaise with mutual aid, corresponding municipal, provincial, federal and
industrial counterparts.
viii.
When official requests are made for provincial or federal help,
communicate by the most secure and effective means via the Provincial
Operations Centre (POC). Otherwise there could be a breakdown of
communications and unneeded costs to the municipality.
ix.
Ensure the Public Information Officer is in plane and appoint as needed.
Communications Officer, Citizen Inquiry Officer and a Site Media Officer.
Make sure all the resources they need are available and that their duties
are being carried out in a timely and accurate manner.
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APPENDIX “B”
GILLIES – CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
The following are the most important infrastructures in Gillies and are listed in rank order:
1. Municipal Staff/Council/Buildings/Records
a. Records located at the Municipal Office within Whitefish Valley School
2. Public Safety and Security – police, fire, ambulance, and first response staff/vehicles
3. Hydro Grid
4. Telecommunications Links
5. Highways 588, 595, and 608
6. Building: Garage, Fire Hall, Rented space at Whitefish Valley Public School
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APPENDIX “C”
GILLIES – HIRA
A HIRA (Hazard Identification and Risk Analysis) was conducted for Gillies. The most serious are listed
below and are scored both for probability of occurrence and potential consequence. The number of the
left is the probability and the number on the right is the potential consequence. The study did not
include only Gillies, but took into account emergencies in similar Municipalities in the District of Thunder
Bay.
Scoring
Probability of Occurrence
1 – No incidents in the last 15 years
2 – Last incident 5-15 years ago
3 – One incident in the last 5 years
4 – Multiple incidents in the last 5 years
Consequence
1 – Negligible
2 – Limited
3 – Substantial
4 – High
3/4
Forest Fire:
Both the risk and consequences are high and the most probably cause of a large Municipal
evacuation. Evacuation can be used by smoke from a forest fire. Forest fires have caused a
partial (Phase I) evacuation from Terrace Bay (twice), Schreiber, Pays Plat and a complete
evacuation (Phase II) from Beardmore and Caramat.
3/3
Flood:
The Whitefish River is prone to flooding in Hymers in the spring during the ice break-up/runoff
or during heavy rain or thunder storms in the summer/fall. The Lakehead Region Conservation
Authority monitors the water flow and has an emergency plan in place.
3/3
Severe Snow/Storm:
Residents could be at risk being unable to obtain medical needs and possibly food and fuel.
Police, fire and ambulance could be prevented from attending emergencies. Many roads could
be closed or impassable.
2/4
Extended Power Outage during the Winter:
This is a very real concern. It would be difficult to look after every resident who doesn’t have a
source of heat which isn’t dependent on electricity. Public education and encouraging family
emergency plans can greatly mitigate this problem.
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2/4
Severe Windstorms or Tornado
(usually accompanied by a thunder/lightening storm): this can be nearly as devastating as a
tornado. During the late 1980s such a storm with wind shear caused a major blow down of
nearly all trees in an area approximately a quarter of a km, wide from near the Black Sturgeon
River east to nearly the Pick River, a few km north of Hwy 17. All large trees were either broken
off or uprooted. We have all seen areas of blow down in the woods. This type of severe storm
can cause major damage to any homes, businesses and power/telephone lines in its path. Such a
loss of communications causes its own concerns.
2/3
Dangerous Goods Spills (road):
The most common dangerous goods routinely transported through Gillies are propane, gasoline,
and diesel fuel.
2/3
Transportation Accident:
School bus: likely local residents would be involved – could be multiple casualties/deaths.
Aircraft crash: initial outside help could be slow due to distance or remoteness in the case of an
aircraft crash.
1/4
Influenza (or other) Pandemic:
Our Medical Officer of Health has told us it is a matter of when, not if, the next worldwide
influenza pandemic occurs. According to history we are overdue for a worldwide influenza
pandemic. The last major one was in 1918 and some 20,000,000 people worldwide died from
flue and related symptoms. With global travel, spread today would be quicker. The 2003 SARS
alert reinforced this. Emergency planners from the various medical/emergency departments
met regularly on SARS during the 2003 outbreak. A Pandemic Influenza Plan was developed in
2009 by both the Thunder Bay District Health Unit and the Thunder Bay area EMO.
1/3
Major Emergency at Hymers Fall Fair:
A lot of people are congregated in a small area, many unfamiliar with the roads and their limited
access/egress. There is a Hymers Fall Fair emergency plan.
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